Want a FREE coffee or fountain soda? Wear your LIVE UNITED Shirt to Baltus Tuesday, April 20

April 18-24 marks National Volunteer Week – and we want to celebrate volunteers.  

Tuesday, April 20, as a token of our appreciation, anyone who wears a LIVE UNITED T-Shirt to any Marshfield Baltus location will receive a free coffee or fountain soda! 

If you register on the Volunteer Center’s Web site April 18-24, you will be entered in a drawing to have a chance to win a LIVE UNITED Shirt and more! 

In our crazy schedules sometimes we can’t find time in the day to get everything done.  Yet every day in our communities there are volunteers who are making a difference, creating change, making an impact and giving a part of themselves. 

The best way to volunteer is to match your personality and interests and choose the opportunity that will fit best with your available time.  Just like the many flavors of ice cream there is one that suits you!


Marshfield Area United Way’s Volunteer Center helps local organizations and volunteers make a difference every day.  If you would like find out about local volunteer opportunities visit www.marshfieldareaunitedway.org and click Volunteer to register with the Volunteer Center.  Once registered you can view current, on-going or one time volunteer opportunities and choose to be notified when new opportunities are posted.  There’s something for everyone based on your skills, talents and interests.


Still not convinced you have time?  Do you want to help out but have too busy of a schedule to commit to a regular volunteer opportunity? If so TEAM LIVE UNITED is for you.


TEAM LIVED UNITED is a group of volunteers who are notified when there’s community events in the Marshfield area that need a lot of volunteers.

When local organizations plan large community events it often takes a large team of volunteers to help make it successful ... and that is where TEAM LIVE UNITED VOLUNTEERS help out! As a team member, along with your LIVE UNITED Shirt, you’ll receive information about the one-time opportunities perfect for groups, families and individuals.


Want to lend your professional expertise, but don’t know who needs help?  Leadership Link  has opportunities. This Leadership Marshfield Project is designed for local non-profits to connect Leadership Marshfield Graduates and other area professionals to fill board and committee roles. Visit http://www.marshfieldareaunitedway.org/leadershiplink.html for more information.


To all the Volunteers- Thank you for giving back to your community, for your passion, commitment and time you are priceless!

Bowlers Needed!

Bowl for Kids Sake – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Wood County

April 18 noon to 3 p.m.
Rose Bowl, Marshfield

$40 teams of 4

$50 teams of 5-6

So grab your friends, lace up those rented shoes and Bowl for Kids Sake!

For more information and to sign up call Big Brothers Big Sisters at 387-6198

Big Brothers Big Sisters is a United Way Partner Program. BBBS helps build responsible, independent children and youth by developing positive one-to-one relationships with a supportive and caring adult role model. We are part of the oldest, largest, and most well-respected youth mentoring organization in America.

To learn more about BBBS visit its Web site. Volunteers are always needed and welcomed to help make a difference in our youths' lives.

Program provides financial assistance for Marshfield home maintenance and repairs

This nice spring weather has people thinking again about home improvements, my family included. But many households aren’t able to make improvements, because of the cost.

The City of Marshfield has a Home Rehabilitation Program that provides financial assistance to property owners to help make homes energy efficient or repair unsafe conditions, as well as aid for first-time home buyers.

The first, Owner Occupied Rehabilitation Loan, pays for the repair and maintenance of housing within the city limits. The loans are zero percent interest with deferred payment until the applicant no longer owns the property. Loans can be used for electrical, windows and doors, roofing, plumbing, insulation, furnace or water heaters and other repairs that increase the energy efficiency of the house or improve its condition.

So who can take advantage of this program? Property owners are eligible if they fall at or below 80% of the County Median Income. Some examples of these income guidelines would be a single individual with an annual income of $35,200 or less, and a family of four’s income must be at or below $50,250. Homes seeking improvements must be in the City of Marshfield and there needs to be some available equity in the home to secure the improvements made to the property.

The second program is Rental Rehabilitation Loans. The program includes the same types of improvements as the owner-occupied program, but the property owner does not need to be income qualified. However, the landlord needs to agree to rent to low-income residents for at least five years and rents charged must fall within HUD’s rental guidelines. These are zero percent interest loans, and are not deferred loans.

The third program is a first-time Home Buyer program. The incomes limits apply and the home being purchased must be in the city limits of Marshfield. This program helps with closing costs and down payment. The loans are zero percent interest and deferred until the applicant no longer owns the home.

Lastly are loans that help with handicap accessibility. These loans provide ramps and other accessibility improvements. Again these loans are zero percent interest and deferred until the applicant no longer owns their home.

This year, don’t ignore your home maintenance to-do list. If you think you meet the requirements, find out more information. If you have questions about the loans or eligibility, contact Marshfield Area United Way at 384-9992.

Paula Jero, Marshfield Area United Way Executive Director can be reached at 384-9992 or e-mail unitedway dot paula at solarus.net.

Give 5, Tell 5 to help your community

We need your help.

The 2009 Marshfield Area United Way campaign, which ends December 31, has raised $818,355. Current totals, plus projections of campaigns in progress, will allow United Way programs to serve 87 percent of what was served last year. In order to serve the remaining 1,700 people, United Way needs to raise an additional $43,000.

Many individuals and families are struggling. You have the power to feed a hungry family, help an elderly woman stay in her home and comfort a scared child.

Visit United Way's Web site or Facebook page to watch our Give 5, Tell 5 video.

Please Give today, and then send this video link to 5 friends and ask them to do the same.

If you have given already, we thank you for your generosity. Share this video with 5 friends, and tell them why United Way is important to you.

Send contributions to Marshfield Area United Way, PO Box 771, Marshfield WI 54449.

Call United Way at 384-9992 for credit card donations.

Contributions to the campaign provide vital funding to local programs that work in our community. If campaign totals aren’t more than projected numbers, program funding levels will decrease. What this means is tough decisions for programs already stretching tight budgets.

Without enough contributions to the campaign, programs wouldn't have the resources to assist as many people who are seeking help. This means fewer residents receiving hot meals because they won't be able to afford them without the Home Delivered Meals scholarship funded by United Way.

Tight program budgets also increases the safety risk for victims of domestic violence. The first thing Personal Development Center would eliminate is gas or food cards. Without means for transportation or a means to start over, it's a real possibility that residents would stay in the home with their abuser.

These are only two examples of hard decisions the 37 funded programs would have to make if individuals do not continue to give to the campaign.

It puts into perspective what difficult times we live in. And it makes it important that residents and businesses that have the ability to give, to make a contribution that fits within their budget.

Give 5, Tell 5. Visit United Way's Web site or Facebook page to watch the video and share it with friends.

Give a gift that helps your community

By Paula Jero, Executive Director

While there I began thinking about Christmas shopping. While I love buying presents for the kids in my life, I often find it difficult and frustrating to buy for the adults. Each year it becomes harder and harder to find the perfect gift, or for that matter any gift for the hard-to-buy-for individuals on my list.

Finding a gift that I think they will like is impossible since nothing seems quite right, and I hate the thought of spending money on something that they really don’t want or need.

Realistically does my mother-in-law need yet another scarf or more body lotion? My Aunt Diane has no need for another knick-knack or other item that will just gather dust, and my dad has enough ties and golf shirts to last his lifetime.

I know at my house stashed in my closets are unused gifts that I have received over the years. I always appreciated the thought that went into the gift, but not necessarily the gift itself. I know I’m not unique in my dilemma, a number of people that I have talked to said that shopping for “those that have everything” just adds to the stress of the season.

This holiday season I want each of the individuals on my list to know that I was thinking of them this season. This year I have decided to give something that gives back. I am going to donate to the Marshfield Area United Way in their honor.

Instead of something that gathers dust, the gift will help 13,000 individuals in our community with basic needs like food, shelter and safety. Or assist young people to become productive adults and provide families with support and services. Now that is quite a gift.

Each of those honored by my donation will receive an acknowledgment of the gift made in their name. Those that I choose to honor will know that I was thinking of them this holiday season, our community will benefit, and maybe just maybe I’ll be reminded of the true meaning of the holiday season.

It is truly a season to give.

Take Control of your money with free sessions this October

Budgets are tight for families and individuals throughout the community. But even in good times, creating a budget, developing estate plans and protecting your identity from theft can be a stressful and overwhelming process.

In conjunction with Wisconsin’s Money Smart Week, Marshfield Area United Way is partnering with local professionals to present free informational sessions in Marshfield Money Smart Week: October 10-17.

Learn about budgeting, saving and planning for the future. Sessions taught by professionals in the field in a casual environment where everyone is welcome. Registration is required, call Sarah Krenn at 384-9992 or click here.

**Unless noted otherwise, all sessions held at Marshfield Public Library, BeBee Forum Room (211 E Second Street)**

You and Your Credit Score: Improve and maintain your credit score. Understand why your credit score is important and how it’s determined. Monday, October 12, noon - 1 p.m.

What is e+ ? It's "Energy Smart" Plus a whole lot more! Learn how to save energy, water and money with easy to use tools, do-it-yourself improvements and technology. Tuesday, October 13, noon - 1 p.m.

Organizing Your Life with New York Life’s LifeFolio System: How-to system provided by New York Life to keep your financial records in order. Your Choice of two sessions:
Wednesday, October 14, noon - 1 p.m. or Wednesday, October 14, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

S - T - R - E - T - C - H that dollar: Make your food budget stretch farther. Learn to plan menus, use money saving strategies at the grocery store, and other helpful tips to provide quick, nutritious meals without breaking the bank! Wednesday, October 14, 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Identity Theft: Don’t become a victim of identity theft—learn how to keep your personal information out of the hands of others. Wednesday, October 14, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Basic Estate Planning: Alan Billings will teach about long-term planning, wills, trusts and more.
Thursday, October 15, noon - 1 p.m.

Marshfield Money Smart Week is presented by Catholic Charities, Central City Credit Union, the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, Marshfield Area United Way, Marshfield Utilities, New York Life Insurance, UW Extension, WHEDA and Wynia & Billings SC.

For more information about Money Smart Week, visit www.marshfieldareaunitedway.org or call 384-9992.

Don't miss Breakfast Monday 9-21-09!

Start your week by treating yourself to a special breakfast while helping those in need in our community!

Monday, September 21— 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. City Hall Plaza, 1st Floor

Your menu includes:
Coffee, Cappuccino, Orange Juice
Donuts and homemade Muffins and Sweet Bread

For deliveries: Place your order at 384-2971

Hosted by Personal Development Center, a United Way Partner Program—Proceeds benefit United Way campaign.

Unlock power of individuals uniting to improve lives

Last month at our United Way Kick off our incredible speaker Paul Wesselmann spoke on how our actions both good and bad influence those around us. Paul encourages small acts of compassion and kindness during our daily life, and one way that he does it is through Ripple cards he distributes to everyone at his presentations.

Paul said the message on the Ripple card was one we needed to receive at this point in our life. Mine said, “It is the greatest of all mistakes to do nothing because you can only do a little. Do what you can.” As I have been doing United Way campaign presentations at workplaces I have been sharing this message, and it is becoming somewhat of a mantra. Do what you can.

I’m not sure how my business is going to be able to support United Way this year since business is down. Do what you can. I’m nervous about the economy. Do what you can. I hear about layoffs, wage freezes and downsizing. Do what you can.

If we all do what we can, we will be able to provide for the needs in our community. United Way has some incredibly faithful donors who I know with 100% confidence will do what they can.

But , we need you too. If you did not give to United Way last year, our community needs you to “do what you can” this year.

I recently witnessed the power of our community. Every year United Way does a backpack and school supply drive for families that need help. This year we had a 100 more children than were signed up the previous year, and we were expecting about 340 children.

The only problem was six days before the pick-up day, we had 37 backpacks in our office! Through a flurry of emails and radio announcements we had an outpouring of support with 400 backpacks and an abundance of school supplies. It was amazing and humbling as people did what they could, dropped off backpacks and supplies and handed me checks to help out.

It’s easy to give when the economy is good, but it is important to give when times get tough. How will you step up to support your community? Do what you can.

To give to United Way contact your workplace coordinator or Human Resources, visit www.marshfieldareaunitedway.org and click Give or call 384-9992.


Paula Jero, Marshfield Area United Way’s Executive Director

Day of Action this Saturday!

Get out of the house and enjoy a day packed with activities, food and music this Saturday, August 22.

Join us for Day of Action -- rain or shine at Bakerville Sports Bar & Grill (10631 County Road B).

Free Family Activities -- Noon to 2 p.m.
Learn hands on, inexpensive play ideas that you can do at home.

Plus, create a child identification kit to be prepared for emergencies.


Also at noon, Co-Ed Blind Man Volleyball Tournament

Team Entry Fee $60 -- Every player will receive a Free LIVE UNITED Shirt.
Tournament Winner will receive a traveling trophy. Cash prizes also available.

Sign up: Call 676-3768 or 384-9992. Registration closes Saturday at the start of the tournament.

Other activities include: Wii Tournament, Dunk Tank, Door Prizes, Tug of War and more.

Corn and Pig Roast starts at 4 p.m.

Multi-Artist Tribute Band Slab closes the event with a concert starting at 9 p.m.

Volunteers are still needed. If you're interested in volunteering for any amount of time during the day, please call 384-9992.

Thank you to Event Sponsor Bakerville Sports Bar & Grill.

Thank you to these businesses and individuals who have made donations or are volunteering: Michael and Kate Adamson, All American Aerials, Dress 4 Less, Green Bay Packers, Family Resource Center, Farmer’s Insurance Agency: Kevin R. Krisan, Fashion Bug, Paula Jero, Negro Lobo Catering, Sternweis & Sons, Chris and Jolene Sternweis, Tim Sternweis, Shoppes at Wood Ridge and Target.

Your help is needed--Donate a backpack today!

Help our area children start the school year right. The Fill a Backpack, Fulfill a Dream Backpack and Supplies Collection is wrapping up and number of children in need are outnumbering the backpacks collected.

We need at least 100 additional backpacks and supplies by the end of the day. Fill a backpack with traditional supplies: pencils, pens, glue sticks and notebooks, or make a monetary contribution for the purchase of supplies.

Items can be dropped off at MACCI, Marshfield Savings Bank, Pioneer, Associated Bank or the United Way office.

Please help spread the word of the need, we just hate the thought of children starting the school year without the supplies they need to help them succeed.

United Way Kick off focuses on small actions

The 2009 Marshfield Area United Way campaign kicked off this morning, not with a bang, but a ripple—with the power to create opportunities for everyone to live a better life. The Kick off Breakfast featured nationally known speaker Paul Wesselmann, creator of Stone Soup Seminars and The Ripples Project.  Since 1990, Paul has worked with hundreds of organizations to create dynamic presentations that inspire and inform. 

“We saw Paul speak at our annual conference in Madison this year.  He had such a huge impact on the staff that we wanted to share his enthusiasm and passion for being a positive force in your community,” said Paula Jero, United Way executive director.

The staff contacted Wesselmann after he announced his uRock Road Trip—a tour across the nation to collect smiles and create ripples.  Since he was already in central Wisconsin, Wesselmann is generously is donating his time.

Kick off also featured Drive Chairs Joe and Ginny Mazza who spoke of their passion to help others and the power every gift has to make a difference in creating lasting positive change.

Local Girl Scout Kelly Guden also spoke of her Gold Award Project: Pay It Forward, an effort to create a chain of small actions of kindness to make the world a better place.

The breakfast concluded with an opportunity for volunteers to pick up their campaign packets.  “Volunteers are our greatest resource—from deciding needs, where funding goes, guiding the focus of the organization all the way to raising money.  Each and every person here today has an essential role in serving residents in need in the Marshfield area,” said Jero.

United Way focuses on the building blocks for a good life.  United Way and it’s funded programs work to prepare youth for success in school and life, give people the tools to become financial stable and improve the health and well being of all residents.

Funds raised will be distributed to the 37 Partner Programs serving Marshfield area residents who live and work in Auburndale, Greenwood, Marshfield, Neillsville, Pittsville, Spencer and Stratford. 

Campaigning will continue through the end of December.  United Way staff and Drive Chairs are available for presentations at businesses.  For more information about Marshfield Area United Way or to schedule presentations call 384-9992 or visit marshfieldareaunitedway.org.

Get involved and be a part of change: Give. Advocate. Volunteer. LIVE UNITED.

United Way’s Kick off creates positive ripples August 6

What change can you create by holding open the door? Saying Please or Thank you? Smiling more? Volunteering to help someone who needs a hand? Advocating for someone without a voice? Giving $1, $10, $100 or more? What if this small action inspired someone else?

All of these small deeds are the exact action needed to create change, no matter how complex a problem seems.

At the United Way Kick off & Training, August 6 from 7:30-9 a.m. at Holiday Inn and Conference Center, Paul Wesselman will share how small actions have great impacts.

Paul is founder of Stone Soup Seminars, but you may already know him from The Ripples Project, a weekly e-mail with a quote, point to ponder and reflection from Paul about putting positive actions into practice (fondly referred to as Pebble, Stone and Boulder).

We saw Paul speak at our annual United Way conference ... and we knew instantly we wanted him to help us energize our hard working volunteers.

This dream became a reality when Paul launched the uRock Road Trip – unleashing Ripples of Compassion and Kindness.

Paul is donating his time to help reveal the value of these small actions and how we can LIVE UNITED every day—including raising money to create opportunities for everyone in the Marshfield area.

Kick off will also feature local Girl Scout Kelly Guden and her Gold Award Project: Pay It Forward, a focus on creating a chain of small actions to change the world.

For more information about Pay it Forward visit http://payitforward-goldaward.webs.com/. Start your own chain, spread the word and go to the site to report back to Kelly.

You are invited to Kick off. $5 suggested donation, breakfast is provided. Seating is limited, please RSVP today. Call 384-9992 or e-mail unitedway@tznet.com.

Immediately following Kick off is a new combined training for our Employee Campaign Coordinators and Community Volunteers who deliver campaign packets. This is the time to learn about what’s new, get materials—including packets to deliver—and learn best practices for a successful campaign. We encourage new coordinators to seasoned pros to attend, there’s something for everyone.

Check out Paul’s Web sites: www.theripplesproject.org and www.paulwesselman.com.

For more information about Kick off and how Marshfield Area United Way is advancing the common good through positive ripples, visit www.marshfieldareaunitedway.org.

Stacey Oelrich, Marshfield Area United Way’s communication director can be reached at unitedway.stacey@tznet.com.

Rain Drops & United Way

What does a rain drop and United Way's Kick off have in common? We're both creating Ripples!

Paul Wesselmann of The Ripples Project comes to Marshfield. Don't miss Paul's dynamic and inspiration presentation has he uses his infectious humor to show the true impact of creating change through small actions.

You will leave this event energized, motivated and inspired to LIVE UNITED. Visit www.paulwesselmann.com to learn more about Paul.

Learn more & RSVP: Visit our Web site, or Facebook Page.

Play for Action in United Way's Volleyball Tournament

Get at least five of your friends together and sign up for the Play for Action Co-Ed Blind Man Volleyball Tournament! Registration for teams is $60, each player will receive a free LIVE UNITED T-Shirt.

The tournament will take place at United Way’s Day of Action -- Rain or Shine on August 22, starting at noon at Bakerville Sports Bar & Grill (Southwest of Marshfield – 10631 County Road B).

Register by calling 384-9992, 676-3768 or emailing unitedway.sarah@tznet.com.

Not into volleyball but want to get your family & friends out of the house for something fun? The other activities at Day of Action are a perfect solution.

There will be free family activities from noon to 2 p.m. Learn inexpensive and fun activities you can do at home with your children, become prepared for emergencies by creating a child identification kit and more!

Challenge yourself with the tug of war, Wii tournament, dunk tank and more.

Food will be available throughout the day and the corn and pig roast begins at 4 p.m.

End the evening with Slab, Wisconsin's own multi-artist tribute Rock 'N Roll band.

All proceeds benefit Marshfield Area United Way, creating opportunities for a good life for everyone and advancing the common good in the Marshfield area. Click here for more information about Day of Action.

Help us spread the word! Let your friends know you're attending on Facebook: United Way's Day of Action

An event you don't want to miss

I'm brainstorming ways we can get people to United Way's Kick off this year. Kick off is the BIG event for United Way every year.

It's the event where we make an effort to get everyone together...our Board members, Partner Programs, CEO's, the wonderful people who coordinate their company's campaign (we call them ECC's), the volunteers to go into the community with five packets to ask businesses to contribute to the campaign (we call them Community Campaign Volunteers) and all our other friends that give, advocate and volunteer for the common good.

This year it's even BIGGER because we're also combining the Kick off with the Training for all these wonderful people who help us raise money (because, we couldn't do it without them!).

And more so, it's about 100x BIGGER because we have a fantastic guest speaker Paul Wesselmann. Some of you may be familiar with Paul because he's The Ripples Guy. Paul is a corporate trainer and motivational speaker and creator of The Ripples Project. The Ripples Project includes a weekly e-mail with a quote, point to ponder and a reflection from Paul to how we can take this information and put it to practice (fondly referred to as Pebble, Stone and Boulder).

We saw Paul speak at our annual United Way conference ... and we LOVED him. So much he was all we could talk about for the rest of the conference, the ride home and the next staff meeting. HOW COULD WE GET PAUL TO MARSHFIELD?

Well, our passion for Paul's message of positive ripples paid off ... because he's coming. And we're so excited. But, we want as many people who need positive ripples ... or want to learn how they can make the world a better place with small actions (sound familiar, like LIVE UNITED?).

Earlier I said how can we get people to Kick off. Because I can communicate until I'm blue in the face (and that shade would be of course, United Way blue) ... newspaper, radio, web site, blogs, e-newsletters, posters, and on and on and on ... it's just like you can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink. You can tell people but you can't make them come.

I want to show you how awesome Paul is ... watch Paul's 5 Actions When Stressed! on You Tube. This is one of the things Paul did at our conference. Now, I'm not into audience participation activities, but by the end, I was totally into it.

Also, here's Paul's Channel on You Tube.

The best part of all of these clips? If you come to Kick off ... you'll see even more new information because creating ripples isn't covered on You Tube.

I dare you to watch 5 actions and not laugh. I watched it again just now ... and remembered how great Paul is and I cannot wait for August 6!

You can also check Paul out on his web sites: Paul's site, The Ripples Project, Paul's Facebook, Paul's Twitter.

And after all of that, RSVP to reserve your spot at our Kick off. Everyone is welcome, but seating is limited. And Paul is so awesome, we hope to pack the house.

Want more information about Kick off? Click here. Hope to see you there!

Help us spread the word! Let your friends know you're attending on Facebook: United Way Kick off

Thursday, August 6, 2009
Kick off: 7:30 to 9 a.m. - Training: 9-10 a.m.

$5 suggested donation

Holiday Inn & Conference Center -750 S. Central Avenue, Marshfield

Please RSVP by July 29.

Available resources reduces stress in tough times

Our budgets are tightening with an uncertain economy and the rising cost of living. It’s easy to become overwhelmed trying to make everything fit. There are resources available to residents to help relieve some stress of making ends meet.

Prescription costs can quickly drain a budget, but with the FamilyWize prescription drug discount card families and individuals can save up to 30 percent on medications. Marshfield Area United Way announced this discount card in April as an option for everyone in the Marshfield area—people who do not have insurance, those whose medication is not covered by insurance, Medicaid, Medicare or other benefit plans or for people who have not reached their plan’s minimum deductible.

There are no age or income restrictions, no limit on how many times you can use it and no personal information collected. Through May, the FamilyWize card has already lowered the price of 418 prescriptions in the Marshfield area with a total savings of $6,441.48. To get your card, call United Way, 384-9992 or visit www.marshfieldareaunitedway.org.

For some, the cost of preparing for school can stretch an already tight budget. To help families and children start the school year with new supplies, the Volunteer Center is holding Fill a Backpack Fulfill a Need backpack drive. Every child should have the opportunity to be prepared each school year. Having new school supplies may seem small to adults but to a child it can be everything.

If your child receives free or reduced lunch, or if you are experiencing a financial hardship, please contact us to register to receive a backpack, distributed in August. Businesses and individuals can help by donating supplies.

The job market is also a stress many of us are facing. If you are unemployed or a student and want to utilize your skills or gain experience, contact the Volunteer Center. Many nonprofits can use the help of volunteers for various projects: Web site development, construction projects, development of marketing materials, assisting with programming and special projects.

These are only a few of the programs in our community that reach out to people in need. More resources can be found in United Way’s 2-1-1’s Help for Hard Times guide at the United Way web site or by dialing 2-1-1.

The whole family feels the stress of tough times, but help is out there. To learn more visit www.marshfieldareaunitedway.org or call 384-9992.

Sarah Krenn, Marshfield Area United Way’s Community Impact and Volunteer Center Coordinator can be reached at 384-9992 or unitedway.sarah@tznet.com

Community resources available for residents in need

Every hour of every day, someone in the United States needs essential services—and the Marshfield area is no exception. A single mom is looking to secure adequate child care, a family is searching for social options for a disabled relative or an adult son needs help caring for his aging parents.

In these uncertain economic times the need for information about our local programs is even more important. It's not always obvious where to turn when you or someone you know is struggling. It could be due to job loss, illness or simply stressful and uncertain economic times, but help is available.

Take out the confusion and start with the Help for Hard Times Guide at www.getconnected211.org.

This guide was compiled by United Way’s 2-1-1—putting common resources in one place so residents can start to find solid footing. The guide outlines information about resources like food banks, rent assistance, utility assistance, support groups, counseling, financial assistance, transportation information and more.

Rather speak to a person than read? Or you have additional questions? Dial 2-1-1, you will be connected to a trained and friendly operator who has a database of community programs at his or her fingertips to help you find what you’re looking for.

When you call 2-1-1 you receive confidential information or referrals to human services for every day needs or more complex problems. With an changing amount of programs and services is available, it can often be confusing to know the right place to call. In many cases people end up going without necessary and readily available services because they did not know where to start.

School will be out in a couple of months and it’s a perfect opportunity for you to pick up the phone and utilize 2-1-1’s resources. You can learn about the range of age-appropriate activities for your children. This may include your local library’s hours and how to get involved in its summer reading program or details about summer camp options and other local recreation programs.

Marshfield Area United Way and United Way of Inner Wisconsin partner to provide the Marshfield area 2-1-1 services, available 24 hours a day, everyday.

Get connected to the information you are looking for any time day or night by dialing 2-1-1 or visiting www.getconnected211.org.


Contributed by Stacey Oelrich, United Way’s 2-1-1 Program Coordinator and Communications Director

Books Are Fun book fair returns to Saint Joseph's Hospital

Quench your thirst for knowledge and help your community.

Mark your calendar and plan to stop by the “Books are Fun” book fair. The event will be held in Saint Joseph's Hospital Lobby (by the gift shop, 1N).

Monday, May 18: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Tuesday, May 19: 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Wednesday, May 20: 7 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Choose from a wide variety of books, games and gifts for all ages at prices up to 70 percent off. All proceeds from the book fair will benefit the United Way.

Accepting payment of cash and check

Congratulations Vicky Peterson of Marshfield, Winner of the Dare to Dream Raffle

With ticket number 3602 Vicky won the cash prize $42,678.

Thank you to everyone who bought a ticket, there were 1,796 tickets sold, a great start for our first annual raffle.

Special thanks to Wisconsin Homes for partnering with United Way to offer this unique opportunity and fundraising event. Thank you also to all the ticket locations, including Wisconsin Homes dealers across Wisconsin and Iowa. We appreciate your support.

United Way and Wisconsin Homes plan to hold our Dare to Dream Raffle again next year. Look for more details here as they become available.

Chase away Spring Fever with Happy Hour for United Way

United Way invites residents to welcome spring with a special fundraising event. Gather with family and friends and give back through Happy Hour for United Way, running through May.

Join host Sue Decker and guest bartenders at these fine Marshfield area taverns:

April 30 from 4-8 p.m. at Someplace Else
May 7 from 7-9 p.m. at Bakerville Sports Bar & Grill
May 20 from 5-8 p.m. at The Rose Bowl

Percent of proceeds from the evening will benefit United Way.

Thank you to everyone who stopped out for Happy Hour at Mr. G's. We hope everyone had a great time.

Thanks also for Mr G's for helping sell House Raffle tickets. We draw on Wednesday, time is running out to get your ticket. Call 384-9992 today!

Volunteers Needed to Stamp Out Hunger

Be a part of the largest food drive in the nation, Saturday May 9. Join Marshfield Area United Way, National Association of Letter Carriers and the Marshfield Post Office for the 16th annual Stamp Out Hunger food drive.

Volunteers are needed from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. to sort food and load trucks at the Marshfield Post Office. Any amount of time is needed: service can vary from 15 minutes to one or more hours.

To volunteer call the Marshfield Area Volunteer Center at 384-9992 or e-mail unitedway dot sarah at tznet.com.

On Saturday May 9, place a bag of nonperishable food by your mailbox. Please double check the items you donate to ensure they are not expired. Your letter carrier will pick them up Saturday morning for distribution to local food pantries, St. Vincent DePaul and Soup Or Socks.

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Use your green thumb to provide food for families

Every year the food pantry shelves go bare in the summer time. Every year gardens are overflowing with vegetables the grower can’t eat, can or freeze. It’s a summer tradition to bring the abundant zucchini, cucumbers and tomatoes to workplace break rooms, roadside stands or beg neighbors and family members to take the excess.

United Way has an idea for a way to use your green thumb to feed hungry residents in the Marshfield area this summer and fall. This spring when you plant your garden, plant an extra row of vegetables. Then, when it’s time to harvest, donate the fruits of your labor to our community pantries. Your efforts will put food on the table for families and provide them that building block to a good life they might not otherwise have had.

We don’t want to be over flowing with zucchini and tomatoes. Please follow the suggested guide below when planting.

If your birthday falls on an even date (example: April 14) plant: onions, leafy greens (such as lettuce or spinach), broccoli, carrots, melons, squash or zucchini.

If your birthday falls on an odd date (example: May 1) plant: peas, rhubarb, beans, beets, cucumbers, cauliflower, pumpkins or tomatoes.

So, as you harvest your garden, take the vegetables from your extra row to your local food pantry (for locations and hours, dial 2-1-1).

When the growing season is over, United Way will report back how much fresh food was donated and how many families were able to enjoy the results of the collective gardening community.

You can also help out by contributing your favorite recipes featuring the fresh fruits and vegetables. We will compile recipes, and provide to the food pantries to include as they distribute food. E-mail recipes to unitedway@tznet.com or mail to PO Box 771 Marshfield, WI 54449.

Don’t have the extra space to squeeze in one more row? Even if you donate a part of your harvest once a month it will decrease the burden the pantries are feeling.

So, think green and help United Way provide sustainable resources to help create opportunities for a good life for everyone. For more information, call 384-9992 or visit www.marshfieldareaunitedway.org. Give. Advocate. Volunteer. LIVE UNITED.

Stacey Oelrich, Marshfield Area United Way’s Communication Director can be reached at unitedway.stacey@tznet.com

Join us for an International Day of Youth Service

Marshfield Area United Way and the Volunteer Center will host our area’s “National Youth Service Day” celebration, Saturday, April 18. National Youth Service Day is a day of volunteering to rally the youth citizens of our local communities in an effort to improve the quality of life and encourage a spirit of giving. We are calling all youth and their families to join us for this worldwide event.

Together we planned an eventful morning that should be enjoyable for all who participate. The projects we’ve planned focus on, a food drive, cleaning up trash and debris at Braem and Wildwood Parks, planting trees, cleaning up in and around the Chestnut Center for the Arts. and the Youth Net site in the former Sacred Heart School on South Central Ave.

Those who volunteer can bring great things to a community. Marshfield area youth are a vital part of our community. They can express themselves and voice their concerns. They can also mobilize one another and join in on efforts that have potential to make great impact. Today’s youth are our next generation of volunteers and already they are paving a path of great service. Many youth in the Marshfield area are already involved in volunteer efforts. Before, during or after school they are donating their time to a service project. They realize they are vital members of our community and that they too have the responsibility to share their talents, skills and interests with others.

Why not plan to join us as Marshfield area youth will come together to join a worldwide effort to make positive changes in our world by participating in National Youth Service Day. They will meet community needs through their services of cleaning up local parks, walking trails and community centers, in addition to helping out our local food pantry. You’re asked to bring gloves and rake for park and trail clean-up duties.

So, what are you doing Saturday, April 18? To register, contact the Marshfield Area United Way Volunteer Center at 384-9992 or unitedway.sarah@tznet.com. Volunteers under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult chaperone.

Come join us and be part of an event that helps change the world.

Celebrate Marshfield's Volunteers

SAVE THIS DATE!
WHERE: Marshfield Eagles
WHEN: Wednesday, April 29, 2009
TIME: 4:30 p.m. – 5:45 – Complimentary appetizer buffet and cash bar
5:45 – 6:30 p.m. - Program
WHY: To Celebrate all Community Volunteers!

The impact of volunteers in the Marshfield area is immeasurable! Each and every day volunteers make a HUGE difference in the lives of others and for many organizations.

Marshfield Area United Way, Marshfield Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Main Street Marshfield, Saint Joseph’s Hospital and the Marshfield Public Library are hosting “Celebrate Volunteers, a Community Appreciation Event!” in order to recognize your volunteers.

Please plan on attending and invite your volunteers as well. We would like to honor ALL adult and teenage volunteers who donate their time and talents to the many non-profit organizations located in Marshfield and surrounding communities.

Also, we would like to express our appreciation for their priceless gifts of loyal, dedicated service. This event offers the opportunity for all volunteers to receive a heartfelt “thank you”, to give themselves a “pat on the back” and to encourage others to become involved as well.

We also invite area non-profits to host a display table showcasing their organization and VOLUNTEERS!

To register to attend this FREE event and/or sign up to host a display table, please RSVP by April 20, 2009 for yourself and the number of your volunteers who plan to attend to: Call Sarah Krenn, at 384-9992 or e-mail unitedway dot sarah at tznet dot com. Seating is limited.

Need help with your budget or finances? Attend these free sessions in March

Need help with your budget? Having troubles with your current finances? Your money matters and we can help you!

“Money Matters,” a FREE four session workshop to help you manage current finances, grow your assets, build a savings, shop smart and save on home energy costs. Sign up for one, two or all four sessions.

Money in Motion
A two session course designed to improve your financial literacy. How to get ahead, develop a budget, improve your credit, take action for your money!

• First Session: Thursday, March 5 5:30 – 7:.30 p.m. at MidState Technical College, Room 126 (2600 W. 5th St, Marshfield)
• Second Session: Thursday, March 26 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at at MidState Technical College, Room 126 (2600 W. 5th St, Marshfield)

S - T - R - E - T - C - H that dollar
Is your food budget not going as far? Come and learn to s -t - r - e -t - c - h that dollar and provide nutritious meals for you and your family. We will learn to plan menus, use money saving strategies at the grocery store, and other helpful tips to provide quick, nutritious meals without breaking the bank!

• Thursday, March 12 5:30—6:30 p.m. at MidState Technical College, Room 126 (2600 W. 5th St, Marshfield)
  
  

What is e+? It's "Energy Smart" Plus a whole lot more!
This session will help you save energy, water and money by providing information on programs, easy to use tools and technology.

• Thursday, March 12, 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. at MidState Technical College, Room 126 (2600 W. 5th St, Marshfield)
  
  

Presented by Marshfield Area United Way, Marshfield Utilities, Catholic Charities and UW Extension. Registration is required; call Sarah Krenn at 384-9992 or click here to e-mail Sarah.

Seven Ways to give without breaking your budget

In these tough economic times every dollar counts, both in your budget and donations to non-profits. You want to give back to help improve lives and make your community a better place to live. Did you know you can do just that without stressing your budget.

Area businesses provide options to make charitable contributions based on percentages you spend or invest with them. Don’t forget online options that offer similar reward programs.

Below are the Top 7 ways to give to United Way and create opportunities of a better for everyone--without impacting your budget.

Pick ‘n Save: Advantage Saver’s Card: Specify 488233 on application or with customer service.

Kwik Trip: Kwik Card: Designate Marshfield Area United Way on application or with an inside cashier.

Marshfield Savings Bank: Charitable Money Market Account, Open account with Marshfield Savings Bank for a minimum of $500, designate Marshfield Area United Way.

GoodSearch for United Way: Search the internet and donate. Set GoodSearch as your default search engine, download the toolbar or simply bookmark www.goodsearch.com and use it for all your Internet searching needs.

Select United Way—Marshfield Area where it asks you to select an organization. Each search donates approximately one penny—Click here to start searching and earning money for United Way. You can also track our progress by clicking Amount Raised! In 2008, GoodSearch donated $44.65 to United Way.

GoodShop for United Way: From the creators of GoodSearch, GoodShop allows you to shop at your favorite online sites and stores (more than 700 available) and make a donation to United Way. Browse the list of stores on www.goodshop.com, select United Way—Marshfield Area, then click the store or company to shop with and you’ll be redirected to its site. Shops sites like Amazon, Avon, Best Buy, Macy’s and more.

Walk with a Purpose with Okobos Shoes: Okobos Shoes is a footwear company that is giving back through donations of $15 per shoe purchase. Visit www.okobos.com, at check out, enter UNITED in the promotional code box and Okobos will make a donation to United Way. The donation will be sent to the United Way assigned to serve your zip code.

Banks & Credit Cards: Earn reward points? Visit customer service or the Rewards section of your card’s web site to give to United Way!

Realizing the Dream

"Everybody can be great because everybody can serve," Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Today marks the 23rd anniversary of the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday. This day should mean much more to people than no mail delivery. Many Americans across the country use today to celebrate and honor the life of Dr. King by dedicating their time to a service project.

A noted theme for the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday has become “A Day On, Not a Day Off.” People of all ages are encouraged to set aside time to participate in service projects in their communities. This further commemorates the legacy of Dr. King by meeting local community needs, tolerance, peace and equality for all.

During his lifetime, Dr. King sought common ground on which people from all walks of life could join together to address important community issues. Service, he realized, was the great common ground.

There is no time like the present to seek out your community’s needs, and to honor the work of Martin Luther King Jr. It is a time to take action, and a time to make the change in our communities. United Way's focus is on creating opportunities of a better life for everyone, and volunteerism is a major component of that focus.

Our community is a generous one, through monetary gifts, but also through volunteer efforts. I challenge you to continue Dr. King's mission throughout the year. There are so many ways to get involved!

You can help in annual events like Make A Difference Day in the Fall and National Youth Service Day in the Spring. But it doesn't stop there. Programs across the community have many projects, committees and other needs where you can lend your time, talents and service.

To see a list of current opportunities, click here. You can also subscribe to the Volunteer E-Updates, an email notification about opportunities as they become available (sign up information below).

Please contact the Sarah Krenn at the Marshfield Area United Way Volunteer Center at 384-9992 or e-mail Sarah for more information about listed opportunities or to subscribe to the Volunteer E-Updates.

Make LIVE UNITED a resolution you keep in 2009

It’s hard for me to make New Year’s Resolutions. I didn’t see the point because I could never find the motivation to keep them. Once March rolls around, I have a hard time even remembering what they were.

So last year I did something different. I asked myself what small steps I could take to create change in myself and the world around me. I wanted to focus on clear efforts that would have long-term benefits. Each step had a specific goal and several ways I could practice new habits every day.

In the spring of 2008 United Way of America rolled out a new focus for the United Way Brand and Impact System: LIVE UNITED and Advancing the Common Good. And oddly enough, when I learned more about these ideals, they paralleled my thought process of small actions to create change.

LIVE UNITED is call to action for individuals across the community to unite and create a better tomorrow. When we reach out a hand to one, we influence the condition of all—creating positive ripples out to the community as a whole. When we think of our lives as connected to the lives of others around us, we have the power to create opportunities for everyone to have a better life.

So this year, I challenge you to LIVE UNITED. Here are eight easy ways to get you started:

1. Attend Vision Councils or any of the other action committees throughout the Marshfield area.

2. Give generously to organizations close to home and close to your heart.

3. Open doors for others, say please and thank you, and smile.

4. Learn about community needs, then advocate for those that you think take priority.

5. Tell people you know to dial 2-1-1 when they are having a hard time or don’t know where to turn for community services and programs.

6. Lend a Hand through local nonprofits, service clubs, school organizations or church functions.

7. Double check your nonperishable food items to make sure they’re not expired before you give to food drives throughout the year.

8. Write a letter to your congressional or local representative. If you don’t let them know what’s important to you, no one will.

Make LIVE UNITED a resolution you’ll keep (and remember past March). Learn more about United Way and how you can Give. Advocate. Volunteer. click here to visit our Web site or call 394-9992.

You can change the community’s course of action with your contribution

United – relating to or produced by joint action. Way - a course of action. If there was ever an agency that was perfectly described by its definitions, it is United Way.

United—relating to or produced by joint action. That describes the volunteers who have strived to raise funds this year, in spite of tough economic times. It also describes everyone who gave, because together we produce the joint action of providing needed services in our community.

In these tough economic times, donors have chosen to reduce or even eliminate their charitable giving. What joint action is produced? This is a short-term move with long-term implications.

Campaign is significantly down which means United Way is faced with significantly less resources to respond to significantly more needs. United Way volunteers will be faced with tough decisions. Where can we make cuts? Should it be youth programs? Programs for families? Services for seniors? How do we cut the services of food, clothing and shelter during this economy? I know our tough decisions will be repeated by 38 organizations throughout our community. They too will cut budgets internally and then make the hard decision of who can’t be served.

Way – a course of action. During these unsure economic times, what is our course of action as a community? Just like doing the preventive maintenance on our car avoids costly repairs later, investing in your community now avoids costly services later.

Mentoring youth, helping seniors remain in their homes and helping families work towards financial stability are just a few examples of the cost effective programs supported by United Way. And like costly repairs for our car, the alternatives of involvement with social services and juvenile justice, nursing home care and bankruptcy are all expensive outcomes when compared to offering affordable community based services.

You can change the course of action. There is still time to give, and your donation is urgently needed. Take a moment to read the editorials and Letters to the Editor written recently by United Way funded programs to understand more about what is at stake for people if funding decreases because of decreased giving.

Be a part of changing our course of action. Contribute today. Visit www.marshfieldareaunitedway.org to download a pledge form or mail your donation to Marshfield Area United Way, PO Box 771, Marshfield WI 54449. All donations, regardless of the amount, are welcomed and needed.

Contributed by Paula Jero, Marshfield Area United Way’s Executive Director